Special Features

Pregnancy

Whether pregnancy is something you’re trying to achieve or avoid, most guys could stand to know a little more about what to expect when she’s expecting.

In addition to the baby that comes out at the end, guys should prepare themselves for some pretty major relationship changes while she’s pregnant. Her body is in a pretty much constant state of hormonal flux, so pregnant women can be a touch moody, to put it mildly. Other downsides? Weight gain is definitely happening, but that’s also pretty reasonable, and you should do everything in your power to make her feel okay about it — most of it will pass pretty quickly once she gives birth, especially if she’s breastfeeding (producing milk burns tons of calories).

Oh yes, and pregnancy sex. Almost all women experience a very real decline in sexual appetite while pregnant, especially during the last three months. That hormonal flux we mentioned earlier? Her estrogen levels are skyrocketing, while testosterone, which fuels both male and female sexual appetites, takes a nosedive, so even if your girl’s usually a lion in the sack, you should expect a little down time while she’s gestating. If she’s up for it, though, sex during pregnancy won’t hurt the baby at all, although you’ll have to be a little selective about what positions you choose, and doctors avoid against engaging in anal sex.